Agilent OpenLab CDS v2.4 – Adding Client to Existing System - Site Preparation Checklist

Importance of the Topic

Implementing a robust site preparation strategy for chromatography data systems is essential to maintain analytical integrity, ensure compliance, and maximize uptime in research and quality-control laboratories. Proper configuration of hardware, software, and network resources minimizes installation delays and reduces the risk of operational disruptions over the system’s life span.

Objectives and Overview

This document serves as a comprehensive checklist and specification guide for adding a client workstation to an existing OpenLab CDS v2.4 system. It aims to help laboratory managers and IT administrators prepare the site environment—covering computing resources, networking, software prerequisites, and administrative responsibilities—prior to installation.

Methodology and Used Instrumentation

The approach is based on a systematic review of hardware and software requirements, validated installation procedures, and Agilent’s recommended configurations.

• Operating Systems: Windows 7 SP1, Windows 10 (64-bit), Windows Server 2012 R2/2016 (Standard or Datacenter)
• .NET Framework: Version 3.5 SP1 and 4.7.2 or later
• Processor: Intel® i5, i7, or Xeon E3 (≥3.0 GHz, 4 cores)
• Memory and Storage: 8 GB RAM, 500 GB SATA 7200 RPM or SSD (RAID-1 configuration recommended)
• Display: Minimum 1600 × 900; recommended 1920 × 1080
• Network: IPv4-only, static or DHCP-reserved addresses, 100 Mb/1 Gb LAN
• Peripherals: USB port for installation key, modern web browser (Internet Explorer 11 or Chrome)
• Antivirus and PDF Reader: Symantec, Microsoft Security Essentials, TrendMicro, McAfee; Adobe Reader DC

Main Findings and Discussion

• Client machines must reside in the same Active Directory domain or linked by trust relationships to support name-based communication across system components.
• IPv6 is unsupported and must be disabled; DNS resolution of all instrument controllers is mandatory to avoid system errors.
• Virtualization platforms (Citrix XenApp, VMware vSphere, Hyper-V, Remote Desktop Services) are supported if they meet the same resource criteria as physical hardware.
• Proper site preparation tools (SitePrepStartExe.exe) assist in verifying that all prerequisites are fulfilled before deployment.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Adhering to these specifications delivers predictable installation timelines, minimizes post-installation troubleshooting, and ensures seamless integration of client workstations into centralized chromatographic data environments. This enhances data security, simplifies maintenance, and supports compliance with regulatory standards in pharmaceutical, environmental, and food safety laboratories.

Future Trends and Opportunities

• Cloud-based deployment of data acquisition and processing software to support remote access and collaboration.
• Containerization of application services for streamlined updates and improved scalability.
• Integration of advanced cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive analytical data.
• Adoption of AI-driven monitoring tools to predict hardware failures and optimize system performance.

Conclusion

Thorough site preparation, encompassing hardware, software, and network readiness, is a critical first step in achieving reliable and efficient operation of OpenLab CDS v2.4 clients. By following this checklist, laboratories can streamline installations, reduce downtime, and maintain data integrity throughout the system’s lifecycle.

References

• Agilent Technologies. OpenLab CDS v2.4 – Adding Client to Existing System: Site Preparation Checklist. Revision 1.0, 28 Feb 2019.